Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Exploring Tuscany’s renowned wine regions is a must for any oenophile. The Val d’Orcia Brunello Wine Tour offers an immersive experience in the picturesque landscapes of Montalcino and Montepulciano. Guests indulge in exquisite wine tastings, gourmet lunches, and visits to charming towns. With stunning UNESCO-listed views, this tour promises an unforgettable day of culinary and cultural discovery. What makes this excursion truly unique, however, is the opportunity to delve deeper into the rich history and traditions behind these celebrated Tuscan wines.
Key Points
- Comprehensive full-day excursion from Florence to explore the renowned wine regions of Montalcino and Montepulciano, known for their Brunello and Nobile wines.
- Guided tours of acclaimed wineries, including tastings, and a scenic lunch in the Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape.
- Visit the charming town of Pienza, famous for its Pecorino cheese, as part of the immersive cultural experience.
- Premium air-conditioned minivan transportation and an English-speaking driver for a semi-private tour limited to 8 travelers.
- Positive guest reviews highlighting the knowledgeable drivers, beautiful scenery, and appreciation for the wine and local cuisine.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences nearby.
Overview of the Tour
The Val d’Orcia Brunello Wine Tour offers a full-day excursion from Florence, allowing visitors to explore the renowned wine regions of Montalcino and Montepulciano.
The tour includes wine tastings at acclaimed wineries, guided tours of vineyards and underground cellars, and a seasonal gourmet lunch.
Travelers will also visit the charming town of Pienza, known for its Pecorino cheese.
Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars with 289 reviews, the tour is priced from $244.20 per person and departs from a central meeting point in Florence.
Transportation is provided in a premium minivan with an English-speaking driver.
Itinerary Highlights
During the Val d’Orcia Brunello Wine Tour, guests can look forward to visiting renowned wine regions, including Montalcino, known for its Brunello wines, and Montepulciano, famous for its Nobile wines. The tour also includes a visit to Pienza, where guests can savor local Pecorino cheese. Wine tastings at renowned wineries, guided tours of vineyards and barrel cellars, and the underground city of Montepulciano, are all highlights of the experience. Guests will also enjoy a seasonal superior lunch with stunning views (November to April, restaurant view not guaranteed) and take in the scenic Val d’Orcia landscapes.
| Region | Wine | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Montalcino | Brunello | – |
| Montepulciano | Nobile | – |
| Pienza | – | Pecorino Cheese |
Transportation and Comfort
Travelers on the Val d’Orcia Brunello Wine Tour will journey in a premium minivan equipped with air conditioning.
The English-speaking driver, though not a guide, will navigate the scenic routes. This semi-private tour is limited to 8 travelers, providing an intimate experience.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller accessible, and infant seats are available.
The key transportation and comfort features include:
- Premium minivan with air conditioning
- English-speaking driver (not a guide)
- Semi-private tour limited to 8 travelers
- Stroller accessible, with infant seats available
Guest Experiences and Feedback
Positive reviews of the Val d’Orcia Brunello Wine Tour highlight the knowledgeable drivers and the tour’s beautiful scenery.
Guests commonly wish for more time in towns like Pienza and Montepulciano. Some travelers noted discomfort due to a packed van and long travel times.
Though, visitors appreciated the wine tastings and local cuisine. The tour receives a 4.6 rating from 289 reviews, with travelers praising the intimate experience and scenic views of the Val d’Orcia landscape.
While not perfect, the tour offers an immersive glimpse into the renowned wine and food of the region.
Exploring Montalcino and Brunello Wine
The tour begins with a visit to Montalcino, the historic hilltop town renowned for its production of the prestigious Brunello di Montalcino wine.
Guests will:
- Tour the medieval fortress and explore the charming town center.
- Visit a renowned Brunello winery and enjoy a guided tasting of these world-class wines.
- Learn about the Brunello production process, from grape to bottle.
- Savor the breathtaking views of the Val d’Orcia’s rolling hills and vineyards.
After Montalcino, the tour continues to other picturesque Tuscan destinations, offering a delightful blend of wine, history, and stunning scenery.
Discovering Montepulciano and Nobile Wine
After exploring the renowned Brunello wines of Montalcino, the tour heads to Montepulciano, another iconic Tuscan town famed for its Nobile wines.
Guests will enjoy guided tours of the town’s historic vineyards and underground cellars, learning about the winemaking process. Tastings at esteemed wineries provide opportunities to sample the rich, full-bodied Nobile.
The tour also includes visiting the charming town of Pienza, known for its Pecorino cheese.
Throughout, travelers will marvel at the picturesque Val d’Orcia landscapes, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The day culminates with a seasonal superior lunch overlooking the scenic vistas.
Visiting Pienza and Pecorino Cheese
Following the visit to Montepulciano, the tour continues on to the charming town of Pienza, renowned for its exceptional Pecorino cheese.
The group stops to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, taking in its picturesque Renaissance architecture and stunning vistas of the Val d’Orcia.
Highlights include:
- Visiting a local dairy farm to learn about the traditional Pecorino cheesemaking process.
- Sampling a variety of Pecorino cheeses paired with local wines.
- Strolling through Pienza’s quaint town center, admiring its harmonious design.
- Capturing panoramic views from the town’s historic piazza and cathedral.
Scenic Views of the Val D’orcia Landscapes
Winding through the lush, rolling hills of the Val d’Orcia, the tour offers captivating vistas that have earned the region UNESCO World Heritage status. Sweeping panoramas of undulating olive groves, vineyards, and medieval hilltowns enchant at every turn. From the ancient fortress of Montalcino to the historic center of Montepulciano, the scenery is nothing short of breathtaking.
| Scenic Highlights | Unique Features | Visitor Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Cypress-lined roads | Pienza’s Renaissance architecture | "The views were absolutely stunning." |
| Otherworldly rock formations | Montepulciano’s underground wine cellars | "I couldn’t stop taking pictures." |
| Picturesque vineyards | Pastoral landscapes dotted with farmhouses | "It felt like stepping into a painting." |
| Historic hilltop towns | Dramatic, sun-dappled valleys | "Truly a feast for the senses." |
| Sweeping vistas of the entire region | Iconic cypress trees silhouetted against the sky | "A photographer’s dream destination." |
We've Also reviewed these nearby tours and experiences
- Small-Group Wine Tasting Experience in the Tuscan Countryside
- Florence Pizza or Pasta Class With Gelato Making at a Tuscan Farm
- Cooking Class and Lunch at a Tuscan Farmhouse With Local Market Tour From Florence
- Wine Safaris: off Road Tuscany Wine Tours and Lunch From Florence
- Florence Vespa Tour: Tuscan Hills and Italian Cuisine
- Uffizi Gallery Small Group Tour With Guide
Since You Asked
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
There’s no formal dress code for the tour. Comfortable, casual clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking around vineyards and medieval towns. Dressing in layers is advised to accommodate any changes in weather.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
While you can bring your own snacks and water, the tour includes a seasonal superior lunch. Bringing outside alcoholic beverages is not permitted, as the highlight is the wine tastings at renowned wineries.
Do We Get Free Time to Explore the Towns Independently?
The tour includes guided visits to the towns, but there’s also free time for independent exploration. Guests can wander the charming streets and discover local shops and restaurants at their own pace during the tour.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
There’s no option to extend the tour duration, but travelers can request additional free time in the towns if they’d like to explore independently. The standard full-day tour can’t be lengthened beyond its set itinerary.
Can I Request a Vegetarian/Vegan Meal for the Lunch?
Yes, you can request a vegetarian or vegan meal for the included lunch. Simply let the tour operator know your dietary restrictions when booking, and they’ll accommodate your preferences for the seasonal superior lunch.
The Sum Up
The Val d’Orcia Brunello Wine Tour offers an unforgettable journey through Tuscany’s picturesque landscapes. Guests indulge in exquisite wine tastings, explore charming villages, and savor a gourmet lunch, all while taking in the stunning views of the UNESCO-listed Val d’Orcia. This semi-private excursion provides a memorable day of culinary and cultural discovery.
